What was the driving force behind you becoming a celebrant?
I often heard people say, "We're saving up to get married." My thought was, if you want to get married, just do it, it doesn't need to be a hugely expensive thing. I wanted to help people do just that. Also, I just happened to attend several funerals with the same celebrant and was shocked to hear 'the same words (including the jokes)' at each one. Rolling out the same script, even though the families didn't know it, is not how you do things. AND - I just love hearing peoples' stories and what has led up to the celebration that they are now wanting to bring together.
What involvement do you have/have had with CANZ at a branch or national level?
For a short time I was able to be on the Waikato committee but unfortunately I was over committed and couldn't continue. When I have been able to attend workshops or conference, it has been an absolute pleasure to meet other celebrants and share together. The learning from each other and presenters is wonderful.
Tell us about the ceremonies you perform.
Mostly I do Registry Ceremonies - simply special. I really value the short interactions with the couple and still manage to hear a little bit of their story. Celebrancy is something I do as 'an extra' to my already busy schedule so Registry Ceremonies fit in well. However, it is such a privilege to be able to work with couples that want a personalised ceremony. These vary hugely from 'just falling outside of the restrictions of a Registry Ceremony', but the couple still wanting to keep it simple, short and sweet, through to a large gathering, having a full bridal party, possibly other friends and family doing readings or other elements being included. There are some rules around the 'official bits' however, personalising your ceremony means we work together to make it your own special event. Of course, it's not just weddings. I love any occasion to celebrate and discovering 'your story' for whatever the event is, is really special. Life events are worth celebrating.
What are the most enjoyable things about being a celebrant?
It is wonderful meet people and hear their stories. The pathway is seldom perfect but all the twists and turns along the way are what adds to a reason to celebrate. It is such a privilege to discover a little bit of the journey and work with you to make any celebration very special and a reflection of the individual, couple, family or friends that the celebration is for.
What are some of the hardest parts of the job?
Very often, as the celebrant, I don't get to know what is next... sometimes I may have a connection with the people I work with so do know something of the next few chapters... Often times, I am engaged for a particular event. Just a snippet is all I get to see.
What was the most memorable ceremony you have performed?
There isn't a 'most' for me. I throw myself into every ceremony and really try to discover what is wanted. It's memorable because the ceremony 'hit the mark', whether simply special or a bit (or lot) more elaborate. I just love seeing the 'yes we nailed it' expression on faces.
What does your typical day look like?
Most days involve picking kids up from home and dropping them to school and then picking them up from school and dropping them home. In between I might be volunteering at my church or another group I'm involved with, helping out with my kidlets (grandchildren) or doing a wedding ceremony or other celebration. Loads of variety but somehow it all fits together to make life a 'box of chocolates'.
What advice do you have for someone new to the industry?
If you love people and hearing their stories, you will love being a celebrant. For me it is something that fits in with the other things I do. Having a network of people through CANZ and being able to tap into advice and expertise is wonderful.
How do you like to relax?
Friends and family are the best. I enjoy just hanging out with people I love. My interests are the things I am involved with, Christian camping, church, gathering with others.
You can find out more about Claire on her website, by clicking here.
[IMAGE: Waikato Photographer]
